A leaky faucet dripping at a rate of one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year, which is equivalent to taking more than 180 showers, according to the EPA. 

We're here to help you avoid that. We'll also cover everything from the average leaky faucet repair cost (typically $75 to $350) to parts, labor, and money-saving tips. You'll also learn when it's smarter to repair or replace your faucet.

Average Cost to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Fixing a leaky faucet might seem like a small task, but it can save you money, water, and a lot of hassle in the long run.

So, how much does it cost to fix a leaky faucet? According to the HomeAdvisor 2025 data, the average cost to fix a leaky faucet typically ranges from $100 to $400. This range covers both DIY fixes and professional repairs, depending on what you're comfortable with and how complex the job is.

Cost Breakdown to Repair a Leaky Faucet

Fixing a leaky faucet doesn't have to be a mystery—or a budget-buster! Understanding the costs of fixing a leaky faucet can help you decide whether to tackle the repair yourself or call in a pro.

Faucet Replacement Parts Cost

If you're thinking about a DIY fix, replacement parts are usually pretty affordable. Common parts that might need replacing include washers, O-rings, and cartridges. Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Washers: $1 to $5
• O-rings: $2 to $10
• Cartridges: $10 to $50

Pro Tip: Pick these up at a hardware store or online, and with a bit of effort, you could stop that drip for under $20!

Labor Cost (Plumber Fees)

Not into DIY? Hiring a professional plumber adds plumber costs to fix a leaky faucet to the mix.

Plumbers typically charge between $45 and $200 per hour, depending on your location and the repair's complexity. A simple faucet fix might take 30 minutes to an hour, meaning labor could cost $22.50 to $200.

Pro tip: Some plumbers offer flat rates for common jobs, so ask for an estimate beforehand.

Total Faucet Replacement Cost (If Needed)

Sometimes, a faucet is too far gone to fix, and replacing it makes more sense. If that's the case, you'll need to cover the cost of a new faucet plus installation labor.

• Cost of a New Faucet: $50 to $500+ (depending on brand, style, and features)
• Labor for Installation: $100 to $300

So, how much does it cost to replace a bathroom faucet? The total cost could range from $150 to $800 or more. Some plumbers might bundle the faucet and installation into a package deal, potentially saving you money.

Leaky Faucet Repair Cost by Type

Repairing a leaky faucet can cost different amounts depending on what kind of faucet you have. Some faucets are simple and cheap to fix, while others are more complex and might need pricier parts or a plumber's help.

Cartridge Faucet

If your cartridge faucet is leaking, it might need a new cartridge. Cartridges usually cost between $10 and $50.

If you're handy, you can replace it yourself with some basic tools. But if you'd rather have a plumber do it, expect to pay $45 to $200 per hour for their time, plus the cost of the cartridge.

Pro Tip: For cartridge faucets, lubricate new cartridges for longevity.

Compression Faucet

Compression faucets are older types that use a washer to stop the water flow. If your compression faucet is leaking, it's often because the washer is worn out. Washers are super cheap, usually $1 to $5. Replacing a washer is a simple DIY job if you have a wrench and some plumber's tape.

However, if the valve seat inside the faucet is damaged, it might need to be reamed or replaced, which could cost more. A plumber might charge $75 to $150 for this kind of repair, depending on the time it takes.

Touchless Faucet

If your touchless faucet is leaking, it could be due to a faulty sensor, valve, or other electronic parts. These parts can be expensive, ranging from $50 to $200 or more.

ecause of the electronics involved, it's usually best to have a professional handle the repair. Plumber costs to fix a leaky faucet could be higher too, potentially $100 to $300, depending on the issue.

Ceramic Disk Faucet

If your ceramic disk faucet is leaking, it might be due to worn seals or debris in the disk. Replacement seals or cleaning the disk could cost $20 to $100 for parts.

If the disk itself needs replacing, it might be more. A plumber could charge $75 to $200 for this repair, depending on the time and parts needed.

Ball Faucet

Ball faucets are common in kitchens and use a ball bearing to mix hot and cold water. If your ball faucet is leaking, it might need new seals or a new ball.

Parts for ball faucets usually cost $10 to $30. Replacing them can be a bit tricky, so if you're not confident, a plumber can replace ball faucet seals for $75 to $150, including parts and labor.

Regional Variations in Costs to Repair a Dripping Faucet

The cost to repair a leaky faucet can vary significantly depending on where you live. Factors such as local labor rates, the availability of parts, and even regional regulations play a role in determining the final price.

Labor Rates

The biggest driver of regional cost differences is labor rates. In urban areas or regions with a high cost of living, plumbers typically charge more per hour due to increased demand and higher overhead expenses.

For instance, a plumber in a major city like New York or San Francisco might charge $150 to $200 per hour. In contrast, plumbers in smaller towns or rural areas, where the cost of living is lower, often charge $50 to $100 per hour for the same work.

Parts Availability and Regional Regulations

The cost of parts, however, tends to be more consistent across regions. Most faucet components, like washers, O-rings, or cartridges, are standardized and widely available through online retailers or national hardware stores.

That said, if a specific part isn't stocked locally, you might face additional shipping costs or delays, slightly increasing the overall dripping faucet repair cost.

Given these variations, it's wise to shop around. Contact a few local plumbers for quotes to get a sense of the going rate in your area. Recommendations from friends or online reviews can also help you find a trustworthy professional who offers fair pricing.

Common Causes of Faucet Leaks and Costs to Fix

We'll dive into the most common reasons your faucet might be leaking and how much it typically costs to fix each one.

Knowing what's behind those annoying drips can help us catch problems early and decide if we can handle the repair ourselves or if it's time to call in a pro.

Loose Faucet Hardware

Faucets are built with parts like handles, spouts, and screws that work together to control water flow.

Over time, these bits can loosen up from everyday use or if they weren't installed tightly to begin with. When the hardware gets wobbly, it can't seal the water in properly, and that's when leaks start sneaking out.

Fixing this is pretty straightforward—we just need to tighten those loose parts. A wrench or screwdriver usually does the trick. If something's too worn out or broken, we might need to swap it for a new piece.

Doing it ourselves might only set us back $0 to $10 for tools or small replacement parts. If we hire a plumber, the plumber's cost to fix a leaky faucet could range from $50 to $150, depending on where we live and how tricky the job is.

Compromised O-Ring

Next up is the O-ring—a little rubber circle that sits inside the faucet, often in the cartridge or spout, to keep water from escaping. After a while, this tiny hero can wear out or get damaged, letting water slip past and drip out.

Replacing a compromised O-ring isn't too tough. We'd take apart the faucet, pull out the old ring, and pop in a new one. The key is picking the right size and type for our faucet.

A new O-ring runs between $1 and $5. If we go the DIY route, that's all we're spending. But if we call a plumber, the total leaky faucet repair cost for a compromised O-ring could climb to $100 to $200, including their time and expertise.

Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat is where the faucet's washer presses down to stop the water. If it gets corroded—think rusty or pitted from water exposure—it won't seal right, and leaks can happen even when the faucet's off. This is a sneaky one because it's hidden inside.

To fix it, we can try cleaning the valve seat to smooth it out or replace it if it's too far gone. In bad cases, we might need a whole new faucet.

For a DIY fix, parts could cost us $10 to $50, depending on what we need. Hiring a pro to tackle a corroded valve seat repair might run between $150 and $300, based on the damage and faucet type.

Hard Water/Mineral Deposits

Hard water, packed with minerals like calcium and magnesium, can leave behind deposits inside our faucets. Over time, these buildups clog things up, mess with how the faucet works, and sometimes cause leaks by blocking a proper seal.

Cleaning this up means soaking the faucet parts in vinegar or a descaling solution to dissolve the mineral buildup. If the deposits have done serious damage, we might need to replace a piece or two.

Doing it ourselves keeps costs to fix a leaky faucet low—maybe $0 to $10 for cleaning supplies. If we bring in a plumber, the cost to fix leaks from mineral deposits could be $100 to $200, depending on the time it takes and any parts involved.

Here's a quick look at what we might spend to fix these common leak causes:

Cause	DIY Cost	Professional Cost
Loose Faucet Hardware	$0 - $10	$50 - $150
Compromised O-Ring	$1 - $5	$100 - $200
Corroded Valve Seat	$10 - $50	$150 - $300
Hard Water/Mineral Deposits	$0 - $10	$100 - $200

Hidden Costs to Consider

When dealing with a leaky faucet, it's easy to think only about the basic leaky faucet repair costs. However, there are hidden expenses that can surprise us if we're not prepared. Knowing about these can help you plan your budget better and take steps to keep costs to fix a leaky faucet low.

Emergency Repair Fees (Nights/Weekends)

Sometimes, a leaky faucet becomes an urgent problem that can't wait until morning or Monday. If you need a plumber to fix it at night or on a weekend, you'll likely face Emergency Repair Fees.

• Cost range: These fees typically add $50 to $150 to the standard repair price.
• Example: If a normal faucet fix costs $150, an emergency repair might cost $200 to $300.

Tip: If you think you might need a plumber outside regular hours, ask about these fees ahead of time so there are no surprises!

Water Damage Restoration

A leaky faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but if you ignore it, it can cause potential risks. Water can leak into floors, walls, or cabinets, leading to rot, mold, or even damage to your home's structure.

• What it involves: Repairing or replacing damaged areas and sometimes removing mold.
• Cost range: This can cost anywhere from $500 for small fixes to $5,000 or more for major damage.

Good news: If you fix the leak quickly, you can stop water damage from getting worse and save money on restoration.

Here's a quick snapshot of these hidden leaky faucet repair costs to help you see the big picture:

Hidden Cost	Cost Range	Notes
Emergency Repair Fees	$50 - $150 extra	Added to regular repair costs for after-hours service
Water Damage Restoration	$500 - $5,000+	Depends on damage size; quick fixes lower costs

DIY vs. Professional Repair: Cost Comparison

When faced with a leaky faucet, you have two primary options: fixing it yourself (DIY) or hiring a professional plumber. Each approach comes with its costs, time requirements, and risks.

DIY Repair: Costs, Time, and Risks

Opting for a DIY repair can save money, but it requires careful consideration of the following:

Tools and Parts Cost: If you don't already own them, expect to spend $20 to $50. Replacement parts typically cost between $5 and $50.

Time Investment: A DIY fix can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, especially if you're new to plumbing. This includes disassembling the faucet, troubleshooting the issue, and putting it back together.

Risks: Mistakes can worsen the problem. Over-tightening might damage components, and improper reassembly could lead to persistent leaks. If the repair fails, you may end up paying for a professional anyway, increasing your total faucet repair

Skill Level: DIY is ideal for those with some handiness and confidence in basic plumbing. If you're a beginner, watching tutorials or reading guides can help, but it's not a guarantee of success.

Professional Repair: Costs, Convenience, and Peace of Mind

Hiring a professional plumber costs to fix a leaky faucet more but offers significant advantages:

Labor Cost: Plumbers typically charge $50 to $150 per hour, with most faucet repairs taking about an hour. Some may have a minimum fee, bringing the total to $100 to $200 even for a quick job.

Convenience: A pro can resolve the issue efficiently, often bringing their tools and parts. This saves you the effort of sourcing supplies and figuring out the repair.

Peace of Mind: With a professional, you're assured of a correct fix, often backed by a warranty. This reduces the chance of future problems.

Here's a side-by-side look at the costs of fixing a leaky faucet and other factors for DIY versus professional repairs:

Factor	DIY Repair	Professional Repair
Tools Cost	$20 - $50 (if needed)	Included in labor
Parts Cost	$5 - $50	Included in the total cost
Labor Cost	$0 (your time)	$50 - $150 per hour
Total Cost	$5 - $100	$100 - $300+
Time Spent	30 minutes - a few hours	1 hour (plus travel)
Risk Level	Medium (if inexperienced)	Low

How to Save Money on Faucet Repairs

We're here to help you keep your faucet repair costs down with simple, practical strategies. Whether you love a good DIY project or just want to avoid pricey plumbing bills, this section has you covered. Empower yourself with these budget-friendly hacks!

Preventive Maintenance Tips

A little care goes a long way in avoiding expensive faucet fixes. Here's how to stay ahead:

• Check for leaks regularly: Take a quick peek under your sink and around the faucet every few months. Spotting a small drip early can save you from a major headache later.
• Clean the faucet: Hard water can leave mineral buildup that clogs things up. Soak the aerator (that little screen at the spout's end) in vinegar every few months to keep it clear.
• Tighten loose parts: If your faucet wiggles, grab a wrench or screwdriver and snug up the handle or spout. This quick fix can stop leaks before they start.

DIY Washer/O-Ring Replacement

Leaky faucets often come down to worn-out washers or O-rings—luckily, fixing them yourself is a breeze:

• Cheap parts: You can pick up washers and O-rings for just $1 to $5 at any hardware store.
• Simple process: With a wrench, a screwdriver, and maybe a YouTube tutorial, you can replace them in under 30 minutes. But please note that replacing O-rings incorrectly may void warranties.
• Big savings: Skip the plumber and save $100 to $200 in plumber costs to fix a leaky faucet by handling this common fix on your own.

Bundling Repairs

Got more than one plumbing problem? Bundling repairs can cut leaky faucet repair costs:

• Save on labor: Plumbers often charge a flat rate for the first hour, with lower rates after that. Fixing multiple issues—like a leaky faucet and a clogged drain—in one visit is cheaper than separate trips.
• One-and-done convenience: Schedule just one appointment and get everything sorted at once.
• Smart timing: If you spot a few minor issues, group them for repair. Just don't wait too long if a leak's worsening!

Quick Savings Checklist

• Check for leaks every 3 months.
• Clean the aerator with vinegar twice a year.
• Tighten loose faucet parts as needed.
• Stock up on spare washers and O-rings for fast fixes.
• Bundle plumbing jobs to save on pro visits.

Repair or Replace? Cost-Benefit Analysis

When we're faced with a leaky faucet, one of the biggest questions we have to tackle is whether to repair it or replace it entirely. It's a decision that can feel overwhelming, but we're here to make it simple and straightforward!

The choice often boils down to a few key factors: how old the faucet is, how bad the damage is, and what the costs look like for both options. Repairs might seem like the cheaper fix at first, but if the faucet's seen better days or keeps giving us trouble, replacing it could save us more money over time.

Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replace

Here's a quick snapshot of what we might expect to pay for repairing versus replacing a leaky faucet. This gives us a solid starting point to weigh our options.

Option	Average Cost	When It Makes Sense
Repair	$60 - $200	Minor leaks, newer faucets, quick fixes
Replace	$150 - $400+	Old faucets, multiple issues, efficiency boost

Repair Costs: These typically cover parts like O-rings ($1–$5), washers ($2–$5), or cartridges ($10–$100), plus plumber fees if we don't DIY ($45–$200/hour).

Replacement Costs: This includes a new faucet ($50–$300+) and installation ($100–$200), depending on the style and complexity.

A Real-Life Cost-Benefit Example

Let's put it all together with a quick scenario. We've got a 13-year-old faucet leaking steadily. Repairing it costs $100, but it might fail again in a couple of years. Replacing it with a modern faucet runs $275, with a 5-year warranty and water-saving perks.

Repair Path:

• Now: $100
• In 2 years: Another $100
• 5-year total: $200 (plus water waste)

Replace Path:

• Now: $275
• Next 5 years: $0 repairs
• 5-year total: $275 (with savings on water)

FAQs

Below, we answer the most common questions homeowners ask about faucet leaks.

Is a faucet leak an emergency?

A faucet leak isn't always an emergency, but it can become one depending on the situation. Here's how to figure it out:

• Not an emergency: A slow, steady drip that hasn't changed much. You can usually fix it or call a plumber when it's convenient.
• Emergency: Water pooling around the faucet, a leak that's suddenly worse, or signs of damage (like wet floors or cabinets). If this happens, treat it as urgent and call a plumber fast to avoid bigger problems.

Does a home warranty cover a leaky faucet?

Home warranties often cover leaky faucets, but it depends on your plan. Here's the scoop:

• What's usually covered: Most warranties include plumbing systems, which can mean faucet repairs or replacements are included.
• Check the fine print: Look at your contract to confirm. Some plans only cover specific faucet types or parts.

How much water does a dripping faucet waste in a day?

Based on EPA data, a faucet dripping wastes about 8 gallons per day.

How long does it take a plumber to fix a leaky faucet?

The time depends on the repair's complexity. Here's a general guide:

• Quick fixes: Swapping a washer or O-ring can take as little as 30 minutes.
• Tougher jobs: Replacing a cartridge or fixing a corroded valve seat might take up to 2 hours.
• Average: Most faucet repairs wrap up in about 1 hour.

Why does a faucet still drip when the water is turned off?

A faucet dripping after being turned off usually means something inside isn't working right. Common reasons include:

• Worn-out washers or O-rings: These seal the water flow. When they wear out, water slips through.
• Corroded valve seat: This part connects the faucet to the spout and can rust or wear down, causing leaks.
• Mineral buildup: Hard water deposits can stop the faucet from sealing fully.

Replacing the faulty parts typically solves the problem and stops the drip for good.

Conclusion

Dealing with a leaky faucet can feel like a hassle, but you're now equipped with all the essentials! We've covered the costs to fix a leaky faucet and pinpointed common causes.

You've learned how to spot issues early and weighed the pros and cons of DIY repairs versus hiring a pro, helping you decide what's best for your home and wallet.

For a reliable, stress-free solution, jabrasanitary stands out as your top choice. With our extensive expertise and reliable faucet repair services, we're ready to tackle any faucet problem.

More Reading

• Why Is Faucet Water Cloudy
• Why is My Faucet Leaking
• How To Repair a Faucet